Outdoor Living

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1. Liberty Living: Outdoor Tuxedo Daybed by Sarah Richardson, $2119
2. Liberty Living: Outdoor Open Arm Chair by Sarah Richardon, $1699
3. Liberty Living: Outdoor Large Coffee Table by Sarah Richardson, $1499
4. Home Depot: Paramount Pagoda Firepit Gel, $159.00
5. Home Depot: Woodard Grand Caymen Wicker Collection, $599.99
6. Ikea: KNYCK Napkin holder, $5.99
7. Ikea: ARV 18-piece dinnerware set, $59.99
8. Ikea: GROGGY Tray, $14.99

I believe that a back yard oasis is important for summer time, because I find that our backyard seems to work more as a second living room during the hot summer months. To me, there is nothing better than sitting on the patio, on a warm summer night, eating produce you just picked from your vegetable garden.

Not only does the outdoor room have to be functional, but it should be stunning to. You should put as much time and thought into your backyard and patio as you would in any other room in your house. Consider different textures, colours and patterns, and do not forget the little things. Small accents can make or break this space.

One thing that people have trouble with when shopping for backyard furniture is the price. They feel that spending $2000 on a furniture piece would be a waste for something that you only use for 4 months out of the year. But, try to remember that even though you only use the furniture for part of the year, it has to stand up to the wear and tear of the elements for the full year. It is much better to invest in a few important pieces for this space, and have it last 10 years, than something that will have to be replaced in two seasons.

For patio furniture textiles, I like bright colours in bold patterns. A colour scheme like yellow and white stripes can really freshen up the space, and will boost the colours of the surrounding plants. But when you are shopping for furniture, keep in mind the colour and style of the exterior of your house. It doesn’t have to match, but it is should work with the colours and tones, rather than against it.

Finally: the accents. Keep them bright, fun and quirky. This is the one space where it is okay to do something really playful. Look for cute vases with prints, bright placemats and tacky silver napkin rings. For dishes, I like to go with something that is very classic. With the other accessories being so playful and bright, the contrast of fancy, girly dishes looks great. Have fun with all of the different options available, and remember: for outside decorating, try to think out the box.